Category: Law and Order

Supplementing the joint federal–state program REAG/GARP, the Federal Government launches the new support program “StarthilfePlus” today (Wednesday, 1 February 2017) in cooperation with the International Organization for Migration (IOM). The Federation has provided an additional €40 million to fund the programme in 2017.

The personal interview is the applicant’s most important appointment within his/her asylum procedure. Advice is therefore available from organisations providing aid when it comes to preparing for the interview. It is the “decision-makers” who are responsible for holding the interviews at the Federal Office of Migration and Refugees (BAMF). They invite applicants to attend this appointment, where an interpreter will also be on hand. Applicants absolutely must attend this appointment, or they must state in good time and in writing why they are unable to attend (for instance for health-related reasons). If they do not do so, their asylum application can be turned down or the proceedings discontinued.

Those wishing to apply for asylum should contact an initial reception facility where their personal data will be recorded. Applicants will receive a temporary residence permit. An application for asylum cannot be made from outside Germany.

The initial period in Germany is not always easy. You may feel overwhelmed with a vast amount of new information. Many of the things you encounter at the start will appear strange and unusual. We would like to provide orientation and to help you understand life here in Germany.
The following writings provide an introduction to the Basic Law – the German constitution – and the importance it has for people living here in Germany, which now includes you as well. You will get to know some rights, but also obligations as well.

Germany’s Integration Act is set to be passed into law. It is intended to make it easier for refugees to integrate into society. It provides for more integration courses, employment and training opportunities. At the same time it sets out the obligations those seeking asylum in Germany are under.

When you first come to Germany as a refugee, there are a number of things that you need to remember. Not everything is as clear as it may seem: There are laws and social norms that need to be adhered to.